Sungai Muda Water Levels Stabilize Following Recent Rainfall

Post by : Shakul

After several days of significant rainfall, the water levels of Sungai Muda have returned to a safe threshold, providing much-needed relief for both water authorities and residents in Penang. The Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) confirmed that the river’s levels have risen above two meters, satisfying the current raw water demand for the state. This increase in levels has relieved concerns that arose last month when water levels were observed to be diminishing.

Datuk K. Pathmanathan, the CEO of PBAPP, provided this update during a recent inspection of a pipeline project in Jelutong. He noted that continuous rainfall in the catchment areas has helped stabilize the river over the past three days. Monitoring will continue to ensure that the river maintains its crucial role as Penang's main source of raw water supply in the coming weeks.

Last month, the decline in water levels had caused significant concern among officials, with levels at the Lahar Tiang intake dropping perilously close to the danger threshold of 1.27 meters. There were fears that such low levels could disrupt water supply amidst rising demand in warmer months, prompting renewed discussions on long-term water security strategies for Penang.

Pathmanathan indicated that upstream agricultural water releases in Kedah could have contributed to the earlier drop. Given Sungai Muda's path through Kedah before reaching Penang, significant upstream releases can impact downstream levels. Authorities are now coordinating closely to prevent further abrupt drops in water capacity.

While the situation appears stable, PBAPP has cautioned that forecasts predict a gradual decrease in rainfall until September. This necessitates careful management of regional water resources to brace for a potential dry season that could increase pressure on rivers, dams, and supply systems.

In addition to monitoring Sungai Muda, levels at various dams in Penang are under scrutiny. The Air Itam Dam is currently at 52.8% capacity, while the Teluk Bahang Dam is about 71.8% full. Though these levels are manageable, they have shown gradual decline recently.

Conversely, the Expanded Mengkuang Dam is in a favorable position with water storage at 90.2% capacity, providing reassurance for Penang’s water planning. However, officials reiterate the importance of vigilance, as changing weather patterns can quickly impact water availability.

To proactively address demand, PBAPP has revealed plans to increase the transfer of raw water from Sungai Muda to Penang island. Currently supplying approximately 420 million liters per day, the corporation aims to boost this by an additional 20 million liters daily, enhancing water availability for households and businesses alike.

This increased supply is expected to help meet consumer needs during the forthcoming dry months and mitigate the risk of shortages. PBAPP has labeled this initiative a short-term preventive measure to ensure stable water services for Penang residents. Authorities have also called on the public to continue using water responsibly, given the unpredictable weather conditions throughout the year.